Leviathan Starblade (2016)

Leviathan Starblade is a vertical scrolling shoot’em up that allows players to select one of three specialized Leviathan fighters and engage in intense battles against relentless alien hordes. Each fighter is equipped with a forward-facing gun as well as a versatile turret system, known as the Starblade, which can be swung or fired in any direction. The Starblade is capable of deflecting or destroying incoming enemy projectiles, providing a critical defensive option. Players must strategically alternate between using their guns and the Starblade, as both cannot be active simultaneously. Effective weapon management is essential: failing to eliminate enough enemies can result in mission failure. Utilizing the Starblade offers protection, but it can also hinder your offensive capabilities, as it prevents firing at the incoming alien forces. Tactical decisions regarding weapon usage are vital to success.

Features

• Choose from five distinct Starblades, each offering unique advantages and playstyles.
• Customize your arsenal by selecting two guns from nine available options, each with individual firing patterns and damage output. Guns can be switched during combat to adapt to different situations.
• Select from three different ship designs, each customizable with 76 color and pattern variations.
• Complete 18 challenging missions featuring unique bosses and escalating difficulty.
• Enjoy 18 original music tracks, which players can switch between during gameplay.
• Full controller support is available for a seamless gameplay experience.
• The game does not feature extra lives or collectible drops, though players receive minor healing between missions.
• Collisions with standard enemies do not inflict damage, but impacts with bosses and energy ships will harm the player.
• Certain enemy ships can only be destroyed by using the Starblade, adding a strategic layer to combat.
• All visual elements, including sprites and particle effects, as well as the music, were developed in-house.

Story Background

In ancient times, myths and legends described extraordinary beasts flying across the skies, called phoenix, anzu, bennu, simurgh, seraphim, suzaku, anka, or dragons depending on the culture. These tales, passed down through generations, were not purely fictional. In reality, they were accounts of spacecraft piloted by ancient beings engaged in an eternal cosmic war. For thousands of years, these celestial entities have battled in the vast abyss of space using their fire-breathing leviathans.

The balance of power has recently shifted. The ancient guardians who once protected our sector have suffered a devastating defeat, leaving Earth vulnerable. The eternal conflict now edges closer to our planet, placing humanity back on the front line. The dark horrors from myth and legend, once thought to be mere stories, are now a tangible threat. Unlike previous eras, humanity is prepared to resist, refusing to submit to the domination of ancient deities and the destructive wars of eldritch beings.

Players assume the role of Earth's defenders, taking the battle to the heavens. Humanity will confront these monstrous forces and demonstrate its resilience against the cosmic predators that have haunted civilizations for millennia. Space itself will become a battleground where titans and demonic entities face the determination and technological power of humanity. Sons and daughters of Earth are called to prepare, as the ancient gods and infernal creatures return to judge us. The mission is clear: humanity must fight and eliminate these threats before they can enslave or annihilate us.